Ask the Airline Exec

Contributing Editor Carl Unger believes that every trip is worth taking. He loves an extended trip to Europe as much as he enjoys exploring the towns and landscape near home. Basically, you'll find him wherever there is good food, fresh air, and plenty of stories to bring home.

Carl has been writing for SmarterTravel since 2005. His travel writing has also appeared on USA Today and the About.com Boston travel guide.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "It's not revolutionary, but a small Moleskine notebook is my one travel must-have. It's great for noting things you want to remember and it takes up hardly any space in your bag."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Japan. I'd love to take a month off and visit the cities, temples, and countryside. I'm fascinated by the country's juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern ambitions."

Travel Motto: “Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” –Terry Pratchett

Imagine it: You spot Southwest CEO Gary Kelly walking through the airport. You realize this is your chance to ask him something that’s been on your mind. So you walk up cautiously, tap him on the shoulder … what would you say?

Readers, I want to know what you would ask an airline executive if you had the chance. Would you ask for new routes? Would you ask about fees?

If you were talking to an exec at a low-cost carrier, like JetBlue or Virgin America, would you ask about the airline’s plans for expansion?

If you were talking to United CEO Jeff Smisek, would you ask him how it feels to run the world’s largest airline?

And if you were talking to Mr. Kelly, from Southwest, well, would you ask him how it feels to gobble up AirTran?

I’m putting this out there because I want to know what’s on your mind. Maybe there’s a question I can answer for you, something I can research and report on, or even reach out to airline management for answers. So share your questions below, and keep an eye out on Today in Travel to see if any answers pop up.

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